Two names dominate the 9mm PDW conversation in 2025 — Grand Power Stribog SP9A3 and Springfield Armory Kuna. Both deliver compact firepower, low recoil, and impressive capacity, making them prime candidates for home defense and vehicle carry. This guide distills everything you need to know about their features, performance, and practical application so you can decide which is right for you. Grand Power Stribog SP9A3 vs Springfield Armory Kuna – Lets get into it!
Brand Background in Brief
Grand Power — Based in Slovakia, Grand Power is known for innovative engineering like the rotating-barrel K100 pistol. The Stribog series entered the U.S. market in 2018, with the SP9A3 arriving in 2020. It features a roller-delayed blowback system for smooth recoil and has built a strong reputation among PCC enthusiasts.
Springfield Armory — Revived in 1974, Springfield Armory works closely with Croatia’s HS Produkt to bring designs like the XD and Hellcat to the U.S. market. The Kuna, launched in 2025, blends AR-style controls with HS Produkt’s precision manufacturing for a modern defensive PDW.
Key Specs Side-by-Side
Grand Power Stribog SP9A3
- Origin: Slovakia
- Barrel: 8″ threaded (1/2×28)
- Weight: ~4.5 lbs (no brace)
- Action: Roller-delayed blowback, closed bolt
- Magazine: 30-round polymer w/ steel lips (20 & 10 available)
- Sights: Flip-up polymer backup sights
- Rail System: Picatinny top + M-LOK sides/bottom
- Brace Mount: Requires adapter for folding brace/stock
Springfield Armory Kuna
- Origin: Croatia for Springfield Armory
- Barrel: 6″ cold hammer-forged, threaded (1/2×28) w/ muzzle brake
- Weight: ~4.6 lbs (no brace)
- Action: Roller-delayed blowback, closed bolt
- Magazine: 30-round proprietary polymer w/ steel lips
- Sights: Hybrid flip-up iron sights
- Rail System: Picatinny top + M-LOK sides/bottom
- Brace Mount: Integrated Picatinny rear for quick attachment
Performance & Handling
Recoil Control
- Stribog SP9A3: Heavier build tames recoil naturally; smooth impulse without excessive muzzle flip.
- Kuna: Roller delay + muzzle brake make it extremely flat-shooting; softer feel than most PCCs.
Accuracy
- Stribog SP9A3: 8″ barrel delivers extra velocity and stable groups to 100 yards.
- Kuna: Tight silver-dollar groups at 25 yards; consistent steel hits at 100 yards.
Ergonomics
- Stribog SP9A3: Ambi controls, reversible charging handle, integrated grip.
- Kuna: Fully ambi AR-style controls, folding charging handle, AR-pattern grip for customization.
Reliability
- Stribog SP9A3: New curved mags solved earlier feeding issues; prefers quality ammo for best results.
- Kuna: 1000+ rounds tested with +P JHP, subsonic, and FMJ — no malfunctions reported.
Home Defense
Both guns shine indoors thanks to their compact frames and controllable recoil.
Why the Stribog Works
- Slightly more barrel length for velocity.
- Proven durability and aftermarket options.
- Reliable with modern mags and defensive loads.
Why the Kuna Excels
- Integrated brace mount for fast deployment.
- Softer recoil impulse for rapid follow-up shots.
- Out-of-the-box readiness — sights, brake, and ambi controls included.
Vehicle Carry
For “truck gun” roles, portability and deployment speed are key.
Stribog SP9A3
- Compact folded size (~16″ with brace).
- Optional Glock-mag lower for ammo commonality.
- Rugged enough for varied climates.
Kuna
- Shorter folded length (~15.5″).
- Built-in folding brace means no adapter needed.
- Quick deployment from compact storage bags.
Pros & Cons Stribog SP9A3 vs Springfield Kuna
Stribog SP9A3 – Pros
- Strong aftermarket support.
- Multiple mag system options.
- Smooth recoil & solid construction.
Stribog SP9A3 – Cons
- Needs adapter for brace/stock.
- Slightly heavier than Kuna.
- Earlier ammo sensitivity (fixed in latest mags).
Kuna – Pros
- Ready-to-run setup.
- Superb recoil management.
- Integrated Pic rail for brace/stock.
Kuna – Cons
- Proprietary magazines only.
- Muzzle brake is loud indoors.
- New to market — limited long-term data.
Verdict Stribog SP9A3 vs Springfield Kuna
- Pick the Kuna if you want an out-of-the-box PDW that’s compact, refined, and easy to deploy.
- Pick the Stribog if you value modularity, proven track record, and mag flexibility.
Either way, both are compact 9mm platforms that deliver accuracy, capacity, and confidence in close-quarters defense.
FAQs Stribog SP9A3 vs Springfield Kuna
Is the Stribog SP9A3 reliable now?
Yes, with the newest curved steel-lipped mags, reliability has greatly improved.
Can the Kuna use Glock magazines?
No, it only uses proprietary Springfield/HS Produkt mags.
Which has better recoil control?
The Kuna feels slightly softer due to its muzzle brake.
Which is better for home defense?
Both excel, but the Kuna’s integrated features make it more turnkey.
Which folds smaller for vehicle carry?
The Kuna folds slightly shorter, but both fit in small bags.
Learn more about the Springfield Kuna HERE
Learn more about the Stribog SP9A3 HERE